Peel RNLI station held their Annual General Meeting on Thursday (14th March) where those present heard that Peel had been the busiest station on the Isle of Man during the past year.
Allen Corlett the Lifeboat Operations manager gave his annual report stating that Peel had been involved in several rescues throughout the year involving engine breakdowns, bad weather including a long tow back to Peel from close to the Mull of Galloway in near gale force winds and several kayak incidents mainly due to a lack of good judgement about conditions.
Allen went on to explain "As our relocation tour of the British Isles continues we are now operationally part of the Irish Division. Again. During my time we have been part of the West Division, Scotland Division, North Division, Ireland Division, West Division again, and now back to Ireland once more.
It has been expedient to relocate us to suit conditions elsewhere and it has irked me somewhat that countries supported by the Institution are referred to by name with the exception of the Isle of Man. The Institution’s Concept of Operations – mission statement if you like – stated that the RNLI exists to save life in the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland. This obviously excludes the Isle of Man! I have lobbied for several years to have this changed to include our Island and last October I was informed that the Trustees have approved an amendment to the Concept wording to properly reflect the situation as it is."
Paddy Kelly Chair of the Ladies Guild gave a report on a very successful year on the fund raising side including a large legacy of ?29,000 from a close relative. Paddy thanked all her committee and all others who had helped throughout the year.
Margaret Kelly branch and station treasurer gave her annual report stating that income was slightly up with the total raised by the guild ?36,192.34. Their was minimal movement on the station account .
Stuart Blackley branch Chairman gave a brief report and thanked everyone for an excellent year at the station.
All officers were returned on block.
